As fans of Kitchen Crashers know, the DIY Network program loves to surprise unsuspecting shoppers at home improvement stores with professional remodels, but who is expected to pay for these pricy renovations?

Lucky for us, past participants have opened up about their experiences on the various Crashers shows (which include Kitchen, Yard, Bath, House, and Room), though getting cast is tougher than you think.

All five versions of Crashers use the same production company, Big Table Media, who foots the bill for the projects. However, local businesses typically donate their goods and services in exchange for free advertising.

On top of that, home makeover shows tend to have big-budget sponsors, like Bed Bath & Beyond and Target, to help cover certain costs. In a 2019 blog post, one of the franchises former clients, Bill Cunningham, confirmed that he didnt contribute a single penny to his renovation.

"My wife and I were on Bath Crashers and while we received a $40,000 high-end bath remodel, as the homeowners we never saw an invoice for one single item or trade that worked on our project," he stated.

"Everyone related to the show was really amazing," he added. "Like a group of fun and talented friends who take over your house for a few days. Its a crazy few days which will leave you sleep deprived and exhausted, but my wife and I would do it again in a heartbeat."

Mike and Wendy Schmiedeler, a couple from Oak Park, Ill., were thrilled with how interior designer Alison Victoria and her Kitchen Crashers crew transformed their outdated space. "The new kitchen is great," the duo told the Wednesday Journal after their episode aired.

"It looks fun and modern now, and the layout makes a ton of sense, and, of course, the new appliances are fantastic," Wendy shared. "People were skeptical that we would turn over the design decisions to someone else There was nothing anyone could do to this kitchen to make it worse than it already was."

Unfortunately, most of the people you see on the Crashers shows were actually found in home improvement stores, meaning your odds of manufacturing an appearance are slim.

The Schmiedelers, for example, were selected to appear on Kitchen Crashers while shopping at Lowes. "We are looking for homeowners who really need and want a new kitchen, who will really appreciate it," Victoria, who also hosts HGTVs Windy City Rehab, said in 2012.

Yard Crashers star Chris Lambton previously told Popsugar that viewers would be shocked by the number of individuals who turn down his offer for a free lawn makeover.

"It's funny how many people when I walk up to them just say 'no' to me or walk away without talking much," he revealed. "That was one of the biggest surprises I found from doing Yard Crashers, how many people don't even want to talk to me."

Though the DIY franchise does its best to be authentic, no reality show is 100 percent real. As one redditor noted in 2017, "My friends sister knew the [Yard Crashers] producer so they set it up where my friend would be at Lowes and then the host would surprise [him] and his wife. Far from random."

We just care about the transformations.

Excerpt from:
Who Pays for 'Kitchen Crashers'? It Isn't Easy to Get Cast on the Show - Distractify

By Nicola Caul Shelley, Synergy Design & Construction

Its been a busy summer here at Synergy! Weve completed a number of beautiful home remodels in the area (while practicing COVID safety, of course) and have started a number of new projects.

Although Labor Day usually marks the end of summer, were hoping for a few more warm days to take advantage of outdoor activities that can be safely enjoyed in these COVID times. One of the things we love about this area is the many lakes, local parks and trails and the opportunity to be outside enjoying nature. Its one of the reasons so many people are attracted to this area (and one of the reasons the housing market is so active right now)!

It may not surprise you to know home remodeling is also in high demand. Now well into our seventh month of the COVID pandemic, many of us are looking at ways to maximize the use and enjoyment of our existing space. Lets face it, spending so much time at home is a surefire way to start you dreaming of that perfect kitchen or finally getting around to remodeling the basement!

In keeping with our love of the local area, this months featured remodel is a Reston lakefront townhome. This remodel is a great example of not only how you can create a more open concept and better flow, but also how changing the internal layout of a home makes it look and feel much bigger (without the expense of an addition). It can also help you maximize some of the best features of your home in this case, a beautiful lake view.

The key to the remodel of this home was creating a better flow throughout the main level and better use of space. Visible as soon as you entered the home, the original footprint included a large closet pantry at the entry to the kitchen. This not only took up a lot of square footage, it blocked the view to the lake and closed off the kitchen. We removed it and changed the door location (and size) of a separate coat closet for more efficient storage.

We also removed a railing-height wall leading to the family room and replaced it with modern cable railing. This created a much more open concept that maximizes the gorgeous water views throughout the main level and brings the outside in. The space now feels bigger, brighter and more airy.

Our clients piano was an important feature for them, so we removed an existing butlers pantry/bar, leaving the perfect nook for the piano. We added a dry bar to the other side of the room for additional storage and a buffet serving area. A large island with lots of seating now takes center stage in what used to be the dining area, and the large dining table was relocated to the step-down living area, which features an updated fireplace. The whole feel of this townhouse has been transformed.

If youve been thinking of a home remodel for a while, be prepared production schedules are rapidly filling up for many home remodeling companies. Were now booking construction dates in late 2020 and early 2021, so if youve been thinking of a home remodel, dont delay and start the conversation now!

Our no-obligation consultations are FREE and if you arent comfortable with having anyone in your home just yet, we also offer virtual consultations.

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Reno of the Month: Reston Lakefront Living at it's Finest! - Reston Now

This content is being provided for free as a public service to our readers. If local news is important to you, consider becoming a digital subscriber to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.***

Nineteen-hundred twenty-five was a momentous year in Florida.

The Sunshine State had just gotten its first taste of the boom times that would define its future: a powerful real estate market drawing northerners looking to invest or for a place of their own in the sun.

It also was a time of railroads, lines that connected Florida from top to bottom, and the beginning surge of what would become the beautiful, sandy and artsy Southwest Florida, home to Fort Myers, Naples and Sarasota.

Four years earlier, on May 14, 1921, Sarasota County was carved out of Manatee County and incorporated as its own community. Manatee, the much older sibling, was founded on Jan. 9, 1855 (when first created, Manatee included all of what is now Sarasota County, Charlotte County, DeSoto County, Glades County, Hardee County, Highlands County and part of Lee County).

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Read all of our Sarasota-Manatee Rebuilding America stories.

For the last 95 years, the Herald-Tribune has been here to document the stories and the growth of the two great communities of Sarasota and Manatee counties, through the financial crisis of the 1920s and 1930s to World War II and the subsequent Florida boom to Korea to Vietnam to the great Space Race of the 1960s and the birth of Disney to the Great Recession until now, when our state, nation and planet face another momentous time.

The Herald-Tribune has always been here to help readers navigate troubled waters and were here to help the businesses that serve as the backbone of this great community get back to what they do best.

Weve been here every step of the way through the COVID-19 crisis, documenting the first cases, telling you how to remain safe and partnering with local foundations and nonprofits to raise millions of dollars to help those folks most impacted.

In this Rebuilding America section, we have partnered with some of the regions most prominent businesses to document how they have dealt with the crisis and to ask them to stand beside us as we navigate our way out of it.

The Herald-Tribune is proud to be the trusted local source for news and information for Sarasota and Manatee residents, and we stand alongside our local businesses as we begin reopening.

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Read Rebuilding America stories from around the country.

The increase in web traffic and audience engagement during these difficult and challenging times has been explosive. Thats why this project is so vital. It zeroes in on focused economic categories, both in print and online.

During this difficult time, weve been been amazed at the generosity and deep sense of community weve experienced from both a personal and professional perspective. Were even more impressed with the adaptability and creatively of local business owners and those keeping our health and safety top of mind.

For example, the way Sarasota Memorial Hospital has kept the community informed about the virus and the importance of emergent and general health has been inspiring.

The creative way other local businesses have kept their employees working highlights local market leadership. Restaurants are a key economic driver for employment and commerce. Many have gotten extremely creative from selling grocery baskets at Pier 22 to many carry-out options from downtown restaurants like Duvals.

Sarasota residents and businesses have been deeply impacted by the pandemic. Being a community that relies heavily on tourism and residential seasonality, the timing was particularly difficult. As we begin thinking about traveling safely, we are so fortunate to have a local air travel option with Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport.

The automotive industry was one of the first to respond and adjust to our new environment with consideration for those impacted. Local dealers adapted business practices for both sales and service with drop-off and pick-up options in order to keep their employees and customers safe.

Building is an essential business. People are still buying and selling homes. As we take a deep look at residential building, local malls, real estate companies and new homebuilders are taking advantage of great rates from local financial institutions.

One positive note is that we are all spending more time with our loved ones as we work from home. This has given us time to evaluate our home environments. More than ever, people are looking into comfort, functionality and style for their space.

From home offices and furniture upgrades to even more extensive kitchen and bath remodels and home exterior improvements, like landscaping, pools and lanais, people are taking advantage of the work-from-home requirements to engage with contractors and accept deliveries.

Many of these businesses have joined with us as we innovate as well with Best of HT Preps. We had to pivot in order to celebrate student athletes in our communities. Rather than an in person banquet and awards show, we will produce an on-demand ceremony on June 18, 2020. We are seeing the same type of innovation with educators at all levels from elementary to college.

For 95 years, the Herald-Tribune has helped its readers and advertisers to see the light. We have no doubt that when we fully emerge from this latest test, Sarasota and Manatee counties will be stronger than ever and also wiser and more determined to succeed in creating a better community for our residents and their families, and a great place to do business.

None of this is happening in a vacuum. In fact, its quite the opposite.

Gannett newspapers across Florida are collaborating on this effort 23 of them to be exact from Pensacola to Jacksonville to West Palm Beach to Sarasota. Collectively, we reach a digital audience of 9 million, nearly 60 percent of Florida adults each month and 2 million readers in print.

But this effort is even bigger than Florida. Its happening across the 260 local brands that form the USA Today Network, which stretches from California to Maine to, of course, the Sunshine State, and most everywhere in between. Thats an audience of 173 million.

If you havent joined us in recent days in Rebuilding America, there is still plenty of opportunity to do so. This is just the beginning. We will be carrying this theme throughout the recovery and its a great opportunity for you to reach your customers and assure them youre back in business.

Were here for you like we have been for the last 95 years and well be here for the next 100.

Matthew Sauer, the executive editor and general manager of the Herald-Tribune, can be reached at matthew.sauer@heraldtribune.com. Stacia King, the media companys sales director, can be reached at sking@heraldtribune.com.

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Herald-Tribune is your partner in Rebuilding America - Sarasota Herald-Tribune

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Dave Hansen, left, and his son Austin Hansen work on a new seating area Thursday at Scooter's Chillin'-N-Grillin' in Twin Falls.

A new bar top has been installed at O'Dunkens Draught House Thursday in downtown Twin Falls.

New patio flooring has been put in place Thursday at Twin Falls Sandwich Co. in downtown Twin Falls.

Original flooring was found during the renovations to the theater, built in 1921, on Friday at the Orpheum Theatre in downtown Twin Falls.

Downtown businesses have been keeping busy in spite of of COVID-19 closures by doing renovation projects in Twin Falls.

TWIN FALLS Sometimes even the darkest clouds have silver linings.

Magic Valley restaurants have lost huge sums of money because of COVID-19. Hundreds of food service workers have lost their jobs. Business wont return to normal for a long time if ever.

But there is one major benefit to shutting, or slowing, down business. Lots of business owners have done remodels to take advantage of their empty stores, and for some, theyve been able to do big projects that would have been more challenging under normal circumstances.

Financially it was the worst time, but as far as affecting customers it was the best time for sure, Twin Falls Sandwich Co. owner Shane Cook said. It took the entire time we were closed.

Owner Shane Cook stands over his new patio flooring Thursday at Twin Falls Sandwich Co. in downtown Twin Falls.

Many Twin Falls business owners have spent the past two months renovating their establishments, in some cases doing much of the work themselves or with the help of friends.

Cook said his business did a ton of deep cleaning, and also repainted, re-tiled and added new artwork by local artists to the walls.

Wed planned on doing it in two years, Cook said, noting that the restaurant is now brighter and more colorful.

Scooters Chillin-N-Grillin started working on major renovations even before Gov. Brad Little ordered restaurants to close. Manager Jamie Carlton said the restaurant decided to get a jump start since it was clear business was going to virtually disappear anyway.

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Watch Now: New business (re)models Store owners make the most of closures - Times-News

words Al Woods

Although there is no shortage of contractors on the market, finding a reliable one can be very difficult. This is true regardless of your situation and the type of job you hope to get done. Naturally, when you are looking to make an upgrade to your home or property, you will want the service to offer superlative quality that is out of this world. However, you will need to keep an eye on your budget, all while making sure that the contractor is working on a schedule.

The importance of these many dimensions and considerations are obvious, seeing as good quality service can help you avoid future issues, as well as add value to your property. Moreover, finishing the job as scheduled will help you focus on your other responsibilities without any impediments or nuisances.

That said, here are a few tips that should help you find the finest contractor every single time.

Many people make the mistake of asking the wrong people and searching in the wrong places. It is crucial that you always use credible sources when you are looking for reliable contractors. A fruitful method will include asking your friends and family about their experiences with reliable contractors. However, seeing as you could be in an area that is absolutely unfamiliar to you, using credible online sources like Angies List can be extremely helpful. Typically, credible sources will have verified their user reviews, which means they guarantee that the user has worked with any one of the contractors you show interest in.

Seeing as many of the reviews can lack depth and hardly touch the surface of any worries or concerns you might have, make sure to ask for references. This will also help you narrow down your choices. Typically, you will need to make a few phone calls, which include calling clients, previous homeowners, employees, and subcontractors. Doing so will help create a more vivid picture of what you can expect. However, for that to happen, you will need to ask questions about how the contractor handles changes to the contract if they pay everyone on time, and how they behave towards the job site.

Part of ensuring a contractors reliability includes confirming their license. This is integral to the process, as an unlicensed contractor can hardly ever be considered as reputable or reliable. Usually, a certified contractor will make sure it is known. However, if it is not proudly exhibited on any of their webpages, ads or brochures, then make sure to ask. This should be done for all types of contractors, even if it includes a seemingly small plumbing job. A certified plumber will be able to professionally tend to your problem, and you can visit this URL to learn more about the quality workmanship certified plumbers provide. Their certification allows them to skillfully work with the type of job, which can include clogged drains, water heater installation, electronic leak detection and many more. Also, a certification or license can usually vouch for the promises they make, which may include getting the job done right the first time and working 24 hours a day.

It is key to the success of this process that you never sign with a contractor or make any formal agreements before asking them for an estimate or formal bid. An estimate will allow you to compare the costs with your budget. However, more importantly, it will give you an idea about their strong suit and what is not. For instance, they may excel in kitchen remodels but may not be as great at home additions. Furthermore, you will be able to discuss, according to the estimate, what types of materials you want to use, and also adjust the details involved.

In addition to all these considerations, you will need to make sure you do your homework. However, you will need to be thorough and include many aspects of your research. Start with a thorough background check, which can say a lot about a contractor. In order to do so effectively, purposefully look for any hidden skeletons, which might include legal issues. Also, ask about the preferred subcontractors your chosen contractor likes using. Make sure they are equally proficient at their jobs. And finally, ask about insurance and permits involved in the remodeling or upgrading project they will be working on.

All in all, finding the finest contractor is not at all hard. Simply by following these minor, yet effective, tips, you will narrow your search down to the contractor the best suits your needs. However, you will need to be smart about your payment schedule, seeing as some people can start slacking after receiving the whole payment. So, make sure to leave out just enough money to act as an incentive for persistence.

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Tips On Finding The Finest Contractor Every Single Time - Flux Magazine

09 April, 2020 - CA - Curtis Construction services have earned the reputation of being one of the most reliable home remodeling firms in the US. It offers services, such as additions, remodels, and renovations at economical prices to clients all over the country.

The staff at Curtis are experts in their field with a wealth of experience in remodeling and have completed various projects successfully. Each staff member works in coordination with others efficiently to get the most optimum results. Their method of working involves utilizing the best processes and systems available for maximum productivity.

They treat their clients as business partners and work together with them through all stages to help them realize their dreams. They discuss in detail their preferences, make relevant suggestions, guide them, but leave the final decisions to their clients.

Curtis Construction services also sees to it that their clients do not have to stretch their budgets for getting their dream home. They give customized solutions as per their specific needs. They have effective solutions for all the clients' requirements, whether it is for bathroom renovation, kitchen remodeling, or terrace remodeling.

For kitchen remodeling, they use their experience of ten years in the field to create the best designs for their clients which is easy to maintain and user-friendly. Similarly, they work together with the clients to provide them with stunning designs for their bathrooms. For colouring interiors and exteriors, their painting experts help customers to choose the best colours and textures for creating the right moods. They provide excellent cost-effective solutions for roofing also.

The staff at CCS is consistent in their dedication to customers. Starting the project to the end, and even after its completion, they are always cooperative and supportive. CCS ensures that the design of the customers' home is unique and uses the most innovative and creative ideas for the purpose. They are very professional and are willing to go the extra mile for the satisfaction of the customers. All projects are completed well in time to avoid inconveniences to the clients.

Curtis Construction services's sincere dedication towards their work and desire to please the customers no matter what has made them one of the most reliable remodeling firms in Los Angeles and the other regions. Their projects start with an initial consultation, following which a design is created after considering the inputs of the client. Then, an estimate is provided based on the financial capacity of the customer. If it is okayed, the project is started and completed to the full satisfaction of the client so that he can enjoy the benefits of the result.

About the Company

Curtis Construction Services has been around for the last 29 years. The firm offers home remodeling and painting jobs along with offering foundation and new construction jobs at affordable rates.

Media ContactCompany Name: Curtis Construction ServicesContact Person: Media RelationsEmail: Send EmailPhone: (888) 496-9090State: CaliforniaCountry: United StatesWebsite: https://www.ccsremodeling.com/

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Renovating The Home? Hire a trusted team For The remodeling project - Press Release - Digital Journal

Every homeowner dreams of having a modern kitchen and bathroom counters, floors, and fixtures. Unless you build your home in the past few years, you might be thinking of changing a few aspects of your home. When you think of renovation, the first question should be, how much does a renovation cost?

Remodeling a bathroom or kitchen, irrespective of the renovation costs for the bathroom or kitchen will enhance its safety, aesthetics, and comfort. You will also increase your homes resale value after a remodel.

The National Kitchen and Bath Association estimated that the average bathroom remodels cost in 2016 was $11,364. About 20 percent of the average cost went to labor. Since then, the costs have gone up with the average now standing at around $15,500.

The costs are dictated by the size of the kitchen and the scope of the remodel. In most cases, a third of bathroom remodeling projects cost more than $30,000, a third cost between $10,000 and $30,000 while a third cost $10,000 or less.

Home Advisor estimates that a 100-square foot kitchen or bathroom remodel will cost between $15,000 and $30,000 depending on the materials and the professionals you hire. You can bring down bathroom remodel costs if you go one step at a time. You will pay about $130 for a square foot.

If you are on a budget, you can start by installing new lighting, new ventilation, then install a vanity, and granite countertops later. This way, you will not shoulder the up-to-30,000 cost all at once. However, if you plan to have large projects such as replacing tiles and tubs, you need to have the contractor do it all at once.

Even when you need to cut costs, you need to consider quality over quantity especially when you factor in the amount of traffic your bathroom gets. It will not make any financial sense if you buy a cheap toilet that starts leaking the moment your bathroom remodel is complete.

To save money and remodel a bathroom with $15,000, shop when your local hardware has offers on materials. You can also shop online during black Fridays.

You can spend $10,000 to remodel a bathroom if you choose low-end materials and forego hiring a designer and instead work with the contractor alone. The cost can also go up to $90,000 if you buy high-end materials and hire all the professionals needed for a successful remodel project including a designer, architect, and contractor. Click to learn more about how to save on costs during a remodeling project.

You need to be ready for inconveniences during a bathroom remodel. Just like you have to have additional cash for renovation basement costs, ensure you have up to 15 percent more money above the estimates for bathroom renovation.

During a bathroom remodel project, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Because the renovation cost per square foot varies from one contractor to the next, ensure you compare costs from different contractors. However, cost should not be the only factor consider the quality of their work, attention to detail, and responsiveness.

Remodeling a kitchen will cost more than remodeling a bathroom. On average, Home Advisor estimates that a bathroom remodels project will cost about $24,965 or about $150 per square foot. As a homeowner, you need to have between $13,000 and $37,000 for a kitchen remodel. The costs are determined by the size of your bathroom, the quality of the materials you choose, and the design you settle on.

Small projects that cost $10,000 or less involve painting surfaces, refacing cabinets, replacing a sink, and installing a tile backsplash. a project that costs $30,000 or more will involve installing custom cabinets, granite counters, high-end appliances, and hardwood floors.

A kitchen is one of the most used rooms in a home. As such, remodeling your kitchen will see the value of your home increase significantly. Remodeling a kitchen can be an expensive affair which also means the project can be expensive.

The National Kitchen and Bath Association estimates that the renovation costs for the kitchen are outlined as follows:

You can look at the cost breakdown above and estimate what your project will cost. However, there are exceptions to these estimates. If, for instance, you will demolish a wall, you might spend more remodeling the wall and other parts around the wall. Talk to your contractor for cost estimates if your project needs more than the estimates above.

You will pay more to remodel your bathroom or kitchen in Los Angeles than you would in New Jersey. Contractors and other professionals charge more in L.A and other major cities than they do in smaller cities and towns.

Besides the location, the materials you choose will have an impact on the overall cost of the renovation. For renovation basement costs, for instance, choosing the contractor with the highest bid and going for high-end materials will see the project cost skyrocket. Lastly, the size of your kitchen or bathroom and the scope of your project will determine how much you spend.

How much does a renovation cost for a bathroom or kitchen remodel? In general, the cost will depend on your neighborhood, the quality of materials you choose, the size of your kitchen or bathroom, and the scope of your project.

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Kitchen and bathroom renovation costs: 2020 update - AZ Big Media

An important part of remodeling a home is making sure it represents the people living in it.

From the pictures hanging on the walls to the number of shelves in a cabinet, every little detail matters.

While many firms offer pre-made cabinets and home furnishings that are able to be installed in a home, some companies in the Charlotte region allow homeowners to customize their spaces.

One example of this is MUSE Residential, a Concord-based general contractor and interior design company specializing in kitchen and bathroom remodels. Instead of hiring an interior designer separately, MUSE has its own design team.

MUSE office manager Alyssa Staley said the company works with clients from start to finish to give them dream remodels.

From conception to execution, we do all of it, as opposed to people who have to hire an interior designer separately to design their space before it gets built, Staley said. We take it from where the customer doesnt have any idea what to do yet.

Staley said when clients contact MUSE, their general contractor will meet them on-site for their consultation, where they discuss budget, feasibility and figure out if they are a good fit for the project. If it is a good fit, MUSE moves into the design phase in which the designers will put together a potential layout and select finishes, such as countertops and cabinetry. Once the client feels satisfied with the design, MUSE will begin building.

Gus Cabinets and More also allows custom-made features in homes. The Stanfield-based company specializes in creating custom cabinets for bathrooms, kitchens and vanities.

Eri Solorio said when clients work with Gus Cabinets and More, they have a big say in the final design.

We really believe in working one-on-one with the client, Solorio said. A custom-made house meets specifically with the needs and wants that the client has, so if the client wants something special made, we can make it.

Clients can choose the exact color of their cabinets and countertops, decide whether to add a pullout trash can or a spice drawer and so much more.

Solorio said Gus Cabinets and More will give potential clients a free quote for their services after a consultation. Then, a blueprint is made and drawings are given to the customer. At the end of the design process, they go into production. Once they start building, Solorio said it usually takes about two to three weeks to finish.

If a customer is not satisfied with the end result, Solorio said it can be redone. However, it is best to come to the company with a concrete idea of what they want.

Her best advice to clients for figuring out exactly what they are looking for is to draw inspiration from social media.

Nowadays, Pinterest and Instagram are the best to look at for inspiration, Solorio said. Everybodys into Instagram kitchens, so we have a Facebook and an Instagram account they can look at and they show us what they want.

Solorio advised homeowners working with any company to communicate effectively via email. She said once something is in writing, it is much easier to make a record of it than if it was said in a phone call.

Because there are a few companies like this in Charlotte, MUSEs Alyssa Staley recommends homeowners do their homework before deciding who to hire. She said it is best to make sure they are accredited by a licensing board, have good reviews and are verified by multiple sources.

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Customer is king when it comes to custom-made remodels - South Charlotte Weekly

HOMEWOOD Fleur du Lac Estates set the stage for some of the most memorable scenes in the Award-winning film Godfather II. Now, the private, on-site residence of the enclaves property developer is on the market for $5.5 million, a news release states.

In 1935, industrialist Henry Kaiser the father of modern shipbuilding constructed Fleur du Lac, a 15-acre lakefront on Lake Tahoes west shore. A crew of 300 men worked eight-hour shifts around the clock, successfully fulfilling Kaisers ambitious goal of completing the estate in just 30 days.

Kaiser desired a venue to celebrate the completion of his Hoover Dam project with family and friends in a locale he adored, Lake Tahoe, and where he could also keep his beloved boats. Lavish parties took place with his contemporaries, who he would entertain in his personal yacht club with decadent meals followed by races across the lake in extravagant, V12 watercraft.

Within the completed Fleur du Lac a moniker meaning Flower of the Lake and named for Kaisers favorite hydroplane were 17 residences, servants quarters, small cottages, as well as his yacht club and boat house, both of which are still in use to this day.

Rare is the opportunity to reside on any movie site, especially one that provided the backdrop to many scenes in Francis Ford Coppolas globally acclaimed The Godfather II including the first communion celebration Michael threw for his son, as well as Fredos death.

After Kaiser sold the property in the 1960s, and the movie was filmed in the 70s, it was revived in the 80s with remodels to many existing structures plus the construction of 22 new, lakefront chateaus.

Kaisers original yacht club still remains, a longstanding reminder of Americas rich industrial heritage and a shared space for homeowners to host private events, relax or impress friends and family while gazing at sweeping vistas of Lake Tahoe and the harbor.

This gated sanctuary has been restored, creating an exclusive, world-class resort community comprised of just 22 luxurious, private residences. Surrounding, protecting, and offering privacy to the residences, is a native stone wall.

Each home features access to an abundance of amenities including a private boat slip for vessels up to 30 feet long, Henry Kaisers historic yacht club and boathouse, a private beach, heated swimming pool, year-round outdoor spa, two tennis courts, exercise facilities, the Kaiser Suite, along with on-site management and guest services.

The lifestyle offered within Fleur du Lac is unparalleled at Lake Tahoe. Nowhere else on the Lake can you own within such an exquisite property, with a private marina, the facilities and amenities, and the level of service and care provided by the association and staff. This is concierge living at its finest, says Katherina Haug, listing agent with Sierra Sothebys International Realty.

Residence 20 is now available furnished for $5.5 million. Its grandeur shines upon entering the foyer, beyond which are the primary living and entertainment spaces surrounding a towering stone hearth, with extraordinary, sweeping views of Lake Tahoe plus the alpine peaks and pines beyond.

A cozy media room/library with a fireplace of its own offers seclusion, while a stocked wet bar is celebration-ready. A pass-through door connects the primary living areas to the gourmet kitchen featuring polished granite counters, ample cabinet storage, sub-zero refrigeration, double ovens, a six-burner range plus many other fine appointments.

Off the foyer is a staircase with access to four bedroom suites upstairs. A cupola above, bathes the mahogany banister and central hall, in natural light. Southern lake views glisten through the window wall of the master suite, an unparalleled sanctuary. Each of the four suites are proportioned with individualized decor and private baths. Two of the suites teem with ambiance from fireplaces set in custom stone hearths.

The home is exclusively represented by Craig Miller and Katherina Haug, of Sierra Sothebys International Realty. For details visit FleurDuLacEstates.com or call 530.209.4980.

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Hollywood history hits the market in Lake Tahoe - Sierra Sun

When eImprovement LLC launched eFaucets.com in 2003, the internet was a promising avenue for commerce and home remodeling television shows were taking off.

Decades later, just selling online isn't enough to sustain a business.

The team from Pleasant Prairie-based eFaucets launched its new site, Hausera, on Tuesday.The site,hausera.com,focuses on products for kitchen and bath remodels.

The way people think about and plan home renovations has shifted with online platforms like Instagram, Pinterest and Houzz servingas places for inspiration and ideation.

The plan for Hausera is to provide anupdated andcuratedfull-service home remodeling site.

The new Hausera isn't just a click-and-buy site.

"We're trying to bridge that gap between seeing that inspiration and making a buying decision," Vice President of Marketing and Merchandising Wesley Ward said.

The team has built out editorial content that will explain materials, finish types and other product information.A new "Room Inspiration" feature shows products curated by design professionals who createproduct lists for kitchens and bathrooms.

The idea is to bring together a fragmented home remodel market.

"The customers are so overwhelmed," Ward said. "They have a hard time making decisions. They don't know how to choose between one option or another."

eFaucets would have around half a million products available. Hausera will have about half the number of products as eFaucets. It is launching with around 30,000 units and plans to grow to around 100,000 by the end of the year.Hausera features brands like Kohler, Kallista, Delta, Moen, Brizo, Hansgrohe, Grohe, Newport Bass and Rohl.

eFaucets was really just focused on faucets, though it did expand into other product categories over time.

"Because of the generic nature of the name, it really wasn't serving any group particularly well," Ward said.

The team thinks all of these changes will result in aggressive growth. At peak, eFaucets annual revenue was around $80 million, according to the company. Hausera is targeting to grow that by three times. By the end of the year, Hausera plans to add another 20 employees to have around 100.

Sarah Hauer can be reached at shauer@journalsentinel.comor onInstagram @HauerSarahand Twitter @SarahHauer.Subscribe to her weekly newsletterBe MKEat jsonline.com/bemke.

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This Pleasant Prairie home remodel retailer is launching a new site to connect inspiration and purchasing - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel